The talented combo-guard Mantas Kalnietis from Zalgiris Kaunas has always been in the conversation when it comes to replacing Sarūnas Jasikevicius in the starter unit of the national team, which always lacks a true playmaker whenever the golden boy takes a break from the international stage.
However, Kalnietis should in no way be compared to Jasikevicius as he brings a totally different contribution and relies on athleticism and speed to beat his opponents rather than creativity and world-class court vision.
The Zalgiris guard was the front-runner to take over from Saras at Eurobasket 2009 but ended up barely leaving the bench during the poor showing of Lithuania in Poland last year.
Major changes in the coaching staff will enable a much needed fresh start for Kalnietis, who has gone through the ranks of the Zalgiris club and has been a strong starter for the Euroleague side the last couple of seasons.
